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Neighborhood Guide: Kenwick, Mentelle Park + The Warehouse Block in Lexington

A shingle covered house with lots of trees in front

A walk through Kenwick is pretty easy on the eyes.

Photo by LEXtoday

Table of Contents

Nestled along Richmond Road on your way downtown, large older homes serve as the gateway to the cozy streets that make up Kenwick and Mentelle Park. While these historic neighborhoods have become a hot spot for young professionals, they are also home to a community of longtime residents.

If you haven’t explored in a while, it might be time to rediscover why so many people — maybe even you love to call it home.

The early days

The origins of the 1100 block of Richmond Road date back to around 1797, when the two neighborhoods were originally contained in Henry Clay’s 600-acre estate. At the time, Kenwick + Mentelle were considered part of rural Fayette County, as the city’s street grid ended at present-day Rose Street. In the 1830s, the land was sold and became a part of the Ellerslie estate — which is now in pieces underneath The Home Depot and Southland Christian Church.

Fun fact: The “Gingerbread House” at 116 Lincoln Ave., known as Rose Hill, was built by Charlotte and Waldemer Mentelle in 1839, hint hint.

Mentelle Park was formed in 1906 out of 56 lots, followed by Kenwick in 1909. Driving along these streets now it’s not uncommon to see a few houses with front doors facing their neighbors, and not the street.

Eat + drink

Dine the day away with a variety of flavorful stops from our neighbors in the Warehouse Block.

  • Kenwick Table has the best of both worlds — start your morning buzz with coffee, tea + pastries, then kick back with a beer, wine, or cocktails after 4 p.m.
  • Grab a pint of local craft beer from Mirror Twin Brewing — a dog-friendly brewery with plenty of outdoor seating + pizza options from Rolling Oven.
  • Enjoy an upscale brunch at Epping’s on Eastside and head home with 20% off a bottle of wine from its in-house shop.
  • El Cid offers an authentic + unique Mexican food experience with unforgettable rooftop seating. Try the Piña Pa La Niña, served in a fresh pineapple.

Need to know

You’re not the only one with your eyes set on Kenwick + Mentelle Park. In the past year, the area’s population grew by ~21%. Wondering why? While we can’t say for sure, this part of the 40502 is known for its easy walkability to the Warehouse Block + Chevy Chase, beautiful historic homes, and access to top Fayette County Public Schools — Henry Clay High School is ranked No. 18 in the state.

Can’t miss

Running low on time? A trip to Kenwick + Mentelle Park isn’t complete without a stop at Wilson’s Grocery. This hidden gem is the quintessential neighborhood corner store complete with a deli, a wide selection of beverages, and essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, and various groceries. It’s pretty much a one-stop shop, so be sure to factor it into your trip. You’ll thank us later.

Entertainment

There’s a reason the housing market is booming in this part of the 40502 — new businesses + expansions are happening so quickly that our heads are spinning.

Getting around

Getting to downtown from Kenwick is just a straight shot down Main Street — for the avid walker and cyclist, it’s a quick mile-and-a-half trip. Rent a scooter or an e-bike for an even more exciting commute.

In Kenwick + Mentelle Park there is plenty of street parking throughout the neighborhoods, just keep an eye out for driveways + yellow lines on the curb. For Warehouse Block there is also street parking and sever parking lots surrounding the businesses.

Where to live

It’s time to move quick. This area is so popular, houses are selling within days. If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are some of the current housing options on the market…for now:

  • Customizable Cape Cod gem, 224 Bassett Ave. | 3 BD, 2 BA | $350,000 | Recently renovated with plenty of potential for the unfinished basement + top level.
  • Brand new construction, 150 Bassett Ave. | 6 BD, 5 BA | $1.1 million | A rare opportunity to own brand new construction in an established neighborhood — the home is expected to be completed on December 1.
  • Modern farmhouse, 308 Hanover Ct. | 3 BD, 2.5 BA | $499,000 | A modern farmhouse in the heart of Kenwick that’s been completely renovated + upgraded with a huge open-concept kitchen and wet bar.
  • Historic investment opportunity, 440 Henry Clay Blvd. | 4 BD, 2 BA | $574,900 | One street over in the Fairway subdivision, this charming duplex has been recently renovated + is ready for renters.
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